The site sensitive landscape design surrounding the Visitor and Research Center reflects Mesa Verde National Park's mission to educate the public about the archeological, biological, and physical resources of the park and their inter-connectivity. Revegetation of the site was accomplished through a mix of native and drought tolerant species while addressing concerns of fire danger. The new building, located at the park entrance, replaces the aging Far View Visitor Center as the park's primary facility for orienting visitors to opportunities within the park and surrounding area. It also houses a state-of-the-art research and storage facility for the park's archives and museum collection of over three million objects. The new facility also earned a LEED® Platinum rating.